Emergency-Disaster Preparedness

Once disaster hits, you will not have time to shop or search for supplies. But if you gathered supplies in advance, your family can endure an evacuation or home confinement.

There are six basics you should stock for your home: water, food, first aid supplies, clothing and bedding, tools and emergency supplies, and special items.

Prepare a Disaster Supplies Kit
Assemble enough supplies to last for 3 days in case you might need to evacuation. Store them in an easy-to-carry container, such as a backpack or duffel bag, and place them in an easily-accessible location. Inclue:

A supply of water (one gallon per family member per day). Store water in sealed, unbreakable containers. Identify the storage date and replace every six months.

A supply of non-perishable package or canned food and a non-electric can opener. (Non-perishable food, ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, and vegetables. Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking, and little or no water.

Change of clothing, rain gear, and sturdy shoes

First aid kit

Prescription medications

Extra pair of glasses

Battery-powered radio, flashlight, and plenty of extra batteries

Credit Cards and cash

Extra set of car keys

List of family physicians

List of important family information; the style and serial number of medical devices, such as pacemakers

Store back-up equipment, such as a manual wheelchair, at a neighbor’s home

Extra oxygen, medication, food for guide or service dogs or other special equipment you might need.

Tools and Supplies:

Mess kits, or paper cups, plates, and plastic utensils

Emergency preparedness manual

Flashlight and extra batteries

Cash or traveler’s checks, change

Tent, compass

Pliers, utility knife

Matches in a waterproof container

Aluminum foil, Plastic storage container

Signal flare, tape

Paper, pencil, map of area

Needles, thread

Medicine dropper

Shut-off wrench, to turn off household gas and water

Whistle

Plastic sheeting

Sanitation, toilet paper, towelettes

Soap, liquid detergent

Feminine supplies, personal hygiene items

Plastic garbage bags, ties

Plastic bucket with tight lid

Disinfectant, household chlorine bleach

Special Items for Infants, Elderly, or disabled family members:

For Baby:

Formula

Diapers

Bottles

Powdered milk

Medications

For Adults:

Prescription drugs

Denture needs

Contact lenses and supplies

Extra eye glasses

Clothing and Bedding:

Include at least one complete change of clothing and footwear per person.

Sturdy shoes or work boots

Rain gear

Blankets or sleeping bags

Hat and gloves

Thermal underwear

Sunglasses

Important Family Documents– Keep these records in a waterproof, portable container: